Thanking Dr. Sheffield and Gastroenterology Specialists of Oregon
When Dr. Michael Sheffield, partner at Gastroenterology Specialists of Oregon (GSO), heard the request by Project Access NOW staff for specialists to join the program, it seemed like “something we could do”. Every one at GSO got quickly on board – it took little persuasion to see the benefits of participation for community health and for people without access to care.
Dr. Sheffield and GSO, where he’s worked for 16 years, have been a part of Project Access NOW for two years. His evaluation of the program was pretty straightforward. “The beauty of the program is that patients come pre-screened and referred by primary care physicians. Plus it’s a very easy organization to work with – always respectful of our time and energy and always open to suggestions for improvement.”
GSO provides up to 3% of its services for free to those who wouldn’t normally get them. “We’re beholden to our community to fulfill our role as physicians,” Dr. Sheffield said. Project Access NOW not only helps GSO achieve that benchmark, it makes it easier for them to donate care. According to Dr. Sheffield, GSO is “big enough to not have to rely on hospitals for referrals.”
The best part of GSO’s involvement in Project Access NOW is, in Dr. Sheffield’s words, that “patients are very respectful, know the system, and don’t abuse the opportunity to get free healthcare. I’ve just been impressed by how many patients are thankful and appreciative.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Sheffield offered an easy answer. “We’re in medicine for the gratification of helping people. This is an easy thing to do and we’ll continue to do it.”
Thank you, Dr. Sheffield and Gastroenterology Specialists of Oregon, for your support!
(November 2009)
